By Al Cohen
Philadelphia Phantoms Correspondent

The Philadelphia Phantoms today bolstered their lineup by signing left wing Todd Fedoruk to an AHL contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. To make room for Fedoruk on the roster, center B.J. Abel was loaned to the Trenton Titans of the ECHL.

Fedoruk, 25, began his professional career with the Phantoms during the 1999-2000 season and has appeared in 42 games with the team over parts of four seasons, recording seven points (1G, 6A) and 145 penalty minutes. His most recent time spent with the Phantoms came last season when he compiled a pair of assists during a two-game conditioning assignment by the Flyers in late November.

"We know Todd and his agent, Brad Devine, had explored many options in Europe and could not find a suitable spot to play," said Flyers & Phantoms general manager Bob Clarke. "The American Hockey League is a very good league and will allow Todd the opportunity to fine tune his skills and play hockey. Todd is at the point in his career where we feel he can not afford to not play and we feel his signing is extremely beneficial to both Todd and the Flyers organization."

The 6-2 Redwater, Alberta native has totaled 28 points (10G, 18A) and 491 PIM in 220 career games with the Flyers from 2000-04. Last season, he registered one goal and four assists for five points with the Flyers. His 136 penalty minutes were second on the team.

"I'm 25 years old, I'm a young player in the NHL, and I need to play to get better," said Fedoruk. "I still am property of [the Flyers] and we both believe that playing is the best situation for me. I live here year round, so why not play with the [Phantoms] and try to help them out and get a chance to play?"

"He's a veteran guy who has spent both time in the American League and the National League," said Phantoms head coach John Stevens. "He's a real energy guy, and he's a big body that skates really well. I just think he'll be a really good two-way forward for us and will help us bring a physical presence to the lineup."

Abel was a healthy scratch in each of the first two games for the Phantoms this season. He compiled 10 points (6G, 4A) in 53 games last year as a rookie.

The Phantoms play their home opener against the Hamilton Bulldogs at the Wachovia Center on Friday, Oct. 22 at 7:05 p.m.